Starbucks Barista Strike Expands to Over 300 Stores Across 45 States
A Starbucks barista strike is expanding to over 300 stores across 45 states, affecting approximately 5,000 workers. The strike, organized by the Service Employees International Union and Starbucks Workers United, aims to draw attention to alleged unfair labor practices and stalled negotiations over a contract that would cover thousands of workers.
Demands and Disputes
The workers are seeking an immediate increase in Starbucks’ minimum hourly wage by as much as 64%, and over 77% over the life of a three-year contract. They are also demanding a resolution of the hundreds of outstanding unfair labor practices. Lynne Fox, president of the Workers Union, stated, "After all Starbucks has said about how they value partners throughout the system, we refuse to accept zero immediate investment in baristas’ wages and no resolution of the hundreds of outstanding unfair labor practices. Baristas know their value, and they’re not going to accept a proposal that doesn’t treat them as true partners."
Starbucks Response
Starbucks claimed that only around 170 stores did not open as planned, with 98% of its stores and nearly 200,000 employees continuing to work as normal. In a memo to employees, a Starbucks executive called the union’s demands "not sustainable," while touting the overall benefits package workers can receive. The executive noted that employees who work at least 20 hours a week receive $30 an hour, on average, when combining pay and benefits.
Negotiations and Union Response
Sara Kelly, Starbucks’ executive vice president, stated, "The union chose to walk away from bargaining last week. We are ready to continue negotiations when the union comes back to the bargaining table." The union, however, remains committed to its demands and has called for fair treatment and recognition of its workers.
Impact on the Company
Starbucks enjoyed a surge in investor sentiment after it poached Chipotle CEO Brian Niccol to be head of the coffee chain in August. However, its share price has since declined in recent weeks alongside the broader market pullback. Niccol has pledged to negotiate with the union in good faith, though his previous tenure at the burrito chain was marked by at least two settlements with workers demanded by the National Labor Relations Board.
Conclusion
The Starbucks barista strike is a significant development in the ongoing labor dispute between the company and its workers. The strike, which affects over 5,000 workers across 45 states, highlights the concerns of baristas regarding fair treatment, wages, and benefits. As the negotiations continue, it remains to be seen whether the two parties can reach a mutually acceptable agreement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many Starbucks stores are affected by the strike?
A: Over 300 stores across 45 states are affected by the strike.
Q: How many workers are participating in the strike?
A: Approximately 5,000 workers are participating in the strike.
Q: What are the demands of the striking workers?
A: The workers are seeking an immediate increase in Starbucks’ minimum hourly wage by as much as 64%, and over 77% over the life of a three-year contract, as well as a resolution of the hundreds of outstanding unfair labor practices.
Q: Has Starbucks responded to the strike?
A: Yes, Starbucks has responded to the strike, claiming that only around 170 stores did not open as planned and that 98% of its stores and nearly 200,000 employees continued to work as normal.
